New Delhi: On Saturday, heavy rain battered the capital city of Delhi, causing a devastating flood in the basement of a popular UPSC coaching center. This tragic incident resulted in the death of two students, with one student still missing.
Heavy Rain in Delhi
Saturday evening saw Delhi hit by widespread and intense rain. The torrential downpour led to significant water accumulation across various parts of the city, disrupting daily life and causing considerable distress to residents.
Flood at UPSC Coaching Center
The UPSC coaching center, located in the Old Rajinder Nagar area of Central Delhi, is a well-known establishment frequented by many aspiring civil servants. Unfortunately, the basement of this center was completely submerged due to the flooding, leading to a catastrophic situation for those present.
Rescue Operations
At around 7 PM, the Delhi Fire Department was alerted about the water stagnation at the UPSC coaching center. Firefighters promptly rushed to the scene. The National Disaster Response Force and local police soon joined them in their efforts. The entire basement was found to be filled with water, making the rescue operations extremely challenging.
Casualties
During the rescue operation, the bodies of two female students were tragically recovered from the water. The search for another missing student is ongoing, with authorities working tirelessly to locate and rescue the individual.
Government Response
Delhi Minister Adishi has called for a magistrate inquiry into the incident, emphasizing the need for accountability and swift action. She has demanded that a detailed report be submitted within 24 hours and appropriate measures be taken against those responsible for this disaster.
Political Reactions
The incident has sparked significant political activity, with Aam Aadmi MP Swati Maliwal, MLA Durgesh Pathak, BJP MP Bansuri Swaraj, and Delhi Mayor Shelly visiting the site to assess the situation. Both the BJP and the Aam Aadmi Party have engaged in a blame game, accusing each other of negligence and mismanagement.
Waterlogging in Delhi
Waterlogging has long been a significant issue in Delhi, especially during the monsoon season. The current Drainage Master Plan of Delhi, developed in 1976, has been cited as a major factor contributing to this recurring problem. The outdated infrastructure is unable to cope with the demands of the vastly increased population and urban development.
Population Growth and Urban Planning
Since 1976, Delhi’s population has quadrupled, but the city’s drainage infrastructure has not kept pace with this growth. Despite numerous proposals and plans, the implementation of a new drainage facility project has been delayed, exacerbating the city’s vulnerability to flooding.
Protests and Public Reaction
In response to the incident, some students participated in midnight protests in Delhi, expressing their frustration and demanding immediate action to address the city’s drainage issues. Public sentiment has been one of anger and disappointment, with calls for substantial improvements in urban planning and infrastructure.
Advice to Students and Parents
The recent tragedy at the UPSC coaching center underscores the importance of safety and preparedness. Here are a few tips for students and parents:
- Stay Informed: Keep track of weather forecasts and alerts, especially during the monsoon season.
- Emergency Plans: Have an emergency plan in place and know the safest routes and exits in buildings.
- Communication: Ensure students have a reliable means of communication to reach family or authorities during emergencies.
- Safety Drills: Participate in safety drills conducted by institutions to be better prepared for unforeseen events.
Conclusion
This tragic incident at the UPSC coaching center highlights the urgent need for modernized infrastructure and effective urban planning in Delhi. The loss of young lives is a stark reminder of the consequences of neglect and mismanagement. Authorities must take swift and decisive action to prevent such tragedies in the future.
